Burmese Bronze-Iron Transitional Period Special Lightning Pattern Line Bead

A rare lightning pattern line bead from Myanmar. Unearthed from the ancient temple ruins on the Thai-Myanmar border. Measuring 9 cm in length, its substantial size suggests it was once a devotional bead, typically not worn by ordinary individuals but placed on altars or within temples. This distinctive totem-shaped ancient bead is currently only found in Myanmar. Refer to page 77 of the archaeological reference book, **Ancient Beads and Jewellery of Myanmar**. The book features similar totem ancient beads, dating back over 2,000 years. Due to the dry burial environment and millennia of temperature fluctuations, the bead exhibits significant crackling and fragmentation, creating visible fissures. After excavation, local expert bead hunters meticulously repaired it with adhesive to prevent further damage from exposure to external environmental factors such as temperature and pressure, which could cause additional breakage. Without these repairs, its value at Thai bead fairs, as heard from fellow traders dealing in Xi Ya beads, is reportedly around 100,000 Thai Baht per bead. Both ends are fitted with stainless steel wire loops, allowing for versatile styling with any necklace or bead strand. This type of large bead is best worn vertically rather than horizontally. ************************ Ancient beads originally held profound religious and protective significance. In challenging times, wearing an amuletic old bead can help harmonize energies and enhance one's fortune. Regular practice of chanting, mantra recitation, acts of charity, and releasing captive animals naturally transforms misfortune into good luck.